CityRep Premieres Julie Johnson taking us on “A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline”
Julie Johnson, Patsy Cline
Patsy Cline, (Virginia Patterson Hensley) was born September 8, 1932 and in the short 30 years she had upon this earth she made an important mark, through a significant sound. A sound that tears at your heart as Patsy sings of grief and mourning and a beautiful tone as she sings of hope and morning. It’s quite a legacy to leave with her rich contralto voice occasionally moderating into a sweet soprano and a twang that made her a country singing star. The twang is not just country; it is the universal sound of complete emotional immersion in her song. She crossed over into all forms of music, and is beloved by all music lovers everywhere. Her recordings tell us a story, but even so, the story those who follow her have to tell is enriching, endearing and wonderful.
Julie Johnson takes the legacy and makes the most of it in her performance in “A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline” bringing the story of Patsy home. The musical has a narrator, Little Big Man, the DJ who was there at the beginning and watched the blossoming of a major talent. While her short life was filled with many heartaches, she never lost her faith in her God-given talent, or her sense of humor at the little curves that life can throw. Written by Dean Regan, a talented singer and performer in his own right, the story highlights Patsy’s career and talent in music while telling her life story.
The musical includes favorites from Patsy’s repertoire including:‘Crazy’ and ‘I Fall to Pieces’. Also ‘Walkin’ After Midnight’ and, of course, ‘A Closer Walk With Thee’. Julie Johnson brings depth to the role and her musical maturity allows a degree of understanding that mimics the inner wisdom Patsy Cline depended upon. It is a fitting tribute to Patsy, and a glorious evening of memories for fans of Patsy, whether they are country, rock and roll or gospel devotees.
“A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline” opens at the Civic Center Music Hall in the Freede Theatre on September 14, and runs through September 24, 2017. Curtain is at 7:30pm evenings and includes a matinee schedule with a 1:30pm start. The Civic Center Music Hall is located at 201 N. Walker Avenue in downtown Oklahoma City and the box office telephone is 405-297-2264. Further information is available from presenters: Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre (CityRep) at www.cityrep.com or call their box office phone number direct at 405-848-3761. The CityRep box office is open Monday through Friday 2:00pm to 5:00pm. The premiere of “A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline” will be sold out quickly—Patsy Cline brought to life by Julie Johnson is an unbeatable combination!